Brené Brown’s presentation resonates with me in many ways. As I hear her words while wearing my OCD therapist hat, I believe individuals struggling with OCD could benefit greatly from her perspective. These are some of the points I’d like to emphasize:

1. She talks about the shame people experience because they believe they may not “be good enough.”  They fear that if others see their true selves, they won’t be worthy of connection.

–In my practice, I help my clients who may be experiencing this shame and fear.  They have often formed negative core beliefs. I help them identify them and work through them so their treatment can be successful.

2. In her research she found that “whole-hearted people” have a strong sense of courage to be imperfect.

–I like that, because when I help my clients, I teach them to learn to accept and love who they are despite their imperfections — and yes — despite OCD.

3. She said, “whole-hearted people” fully embrace vulnerability and they are willing to take risks and accept whatever the outcome may be.

–This is a concept individuals suffering from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder need to learn to accept. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the hardest concepts to process and understand.

4. She mentions: “The other thing we do is we make everything that’s uncertain certain.  The more afraid we are, the more vulnerable we are, the more afraid we are.”

–When it comes to OCD treatment, that is so true isn’t it? You spend hours figuring things out and reassuring yourself, because your thoughts and fears won’t leave you alone. Unfortunately, this solution is temporary. I am suggesting that you accept vulnerability and be willing to take risks.

Brené’s words and advice can help you understand that there is hope for you if you struggle with OCD. Be willing to feel uncomfortable; don’t try to fight the emotions you don’t like. They are all emotions, and you can’t handpick only the ones you want to have!